Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
Author: Dawn Rofrano
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- FOR THE CHICKEN-1½ lbs (about 6 pieces) chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or ghee
- 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- 2 tsp dried onion flakes
- 1 tsp sea salt
- FOR THE CREAMY SAUCE- 1 can full-fat coconut cream
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning blend
- 1½ tsp sea salt
- ½ cup chopped artichokes (frozen or canned, see notes)
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (omit for Phase 1 FreeDiet)
- 1 handful fresh basil, chopped
- 2 handfuls arugula
- 3 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- PREPARE THE CHICKEN-In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil or ghee over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles.
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, onion flakes, and salt. Season one side of the chicken with half of the spice blend.
- Place the chicken seasoned side down in the skillet. Cook 4–7 minutes, until golden brown.
- Season the top side with the remaining spice blend, then flip and brown the other side for another few minutes.
- MIX THE SAUCE-In a bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, Italian seasoning, sea salt, basil, garlic, and artichokes (tomatoes, if using).
- Combine & SIMMER- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir gently to coat.
- Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is heated and thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
- FINISH & SERVE- Add the arugula to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, just until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt if needed.
- Serve the chicken with plenty of the creamy sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with toasted pine nuts before serving.
Notes
Use organic ingredients when possible.
Coconut Cream: Trader Joe’s and Thrive Market carry good options without guar gum.
Artichokes: Frozen or canned both work. If using canned, rinse well before chopping. To thaw frozen ones, run them under warm water.
Greens: Arugula adds a peppery flavor, but spinach, kale, or Swiss chard also work beautifully.
Serving Suggestion: Delicious served over spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
Coconut Cream: Trader Joe’s and Thrive Market carry good options without guar gum.
Artichokes: Frozen or canned both work. If using canned, rinse well before chopping. To thaw frozen ones, run them under warm water.
Greens: Arugula adds a peppery flavor, but spinach, kale, or Swiss chard also work beautifully.
Serving Suggestion: Delicious served over spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
Recipe by Spoonful of Health Delicious Gluten Free Recipes, Paleo and FreeDiet approved at https://spoonfulofhealth.com/tuscan-chicken/